Companions We opened the December 18, 2019 Convocation of Holy Ark Chapter at 5:00 PM in order to get ahead of the busy evening ahead of us. After opening the Chapter High Priest Gary Fazio and Companion Dennis Lyons prepared a “Make your Own” submarine sandwich dinner. Many thanks to them! At 7:30 PM we conferred the Past Master degree upon four of our Canadian visitors. At the conclusion of the degree they were given a Chapter Penny and a special card signifying that they received the NY Past Master Degree. Our thanks to RE Jim MacConnell for conferring the degree together with RE Fred Velott Jr as Marshal,  RE Paul Czubaj as Sr Deacon who also did Q&A’s with RE Keith Poppendeck.  Participating in the degree was Ex Selom Adjogah, RE Pepper Weinheimer III and several others. RE Jim Kintzel conducted the elections and ME RJ Kessler and Ex John Haslam Sr. officiated in the Installation together with  RE Gaskill, RE Singer and Ex Dinatale and MW Sullivan. Thanks to everyone for their fine efforts! Special distinction was conferred upon RE Velott Jr. who was elected Secretary Emeritus… congratulations Fred! A special program will be held in April to honor this distinguished Companion.  Ex Gary Fazio was presented with a special Royal Arch and Cryptic Apron and the Imediate PHP jewel. After the meeting the Companions retired to the Collation Hall to enjoy a special cake and punch which was furnished by RE Poppendeck. A great time was had by all! Merry Christmas!